Ways to reduce plastic usage

While plastic was once hailed as one of the most brilliant inventions of the modern world, it has led to pollution in our oceans and can take millions of years to degrade. While a banning of plastic bags is a great step in the right direction, there are other steps that one can take to try and cut back on their use of plastic.

Bee’s Wrap

Bee’s Wrap is an alternative to plastic wrap. It is made from cloth treated with bee’s wax, jojoba oil, and tree resin. This product is washable, meaning it can be reused for up to a year. After the product meets its expiration date, it can be composted. It is an all natural, eco-friendly substitute for plastic wrap.

Reusable Water Bottles

While this may seem like a no-brainer, many people still drink water from plastic water bottles. Using a reusable bottle is not only better for the environment, but also cost-efficient. While many popular water bottle brands, such as Hydro Flask and Swell bottles, are expensive, there are cheaper options. Plus, the money that is saved from not buying plastic water bottles makes the investment worth it.

Reusable Coffee Thermoses

For coffee or tea drinkers, a reusable thermos may be a good option. Many coffee chains such as Starbucks, Dunkin‘ Donuts and Donut Delight, offer discounts to customers who bring their own cups.

Reusable Straw

Plastic straws are non-recyclable, meaning that all plastic straws end up in landfills, or worse, the ocean. Buying a metal or silicone straw can help fix this evergrowing problem.

Keep a Plastic Log

One way to remind yourself to use less plastic is to keep a log of how much you are using. “Keep a log of all your daily plastic use so you can see what you’re using the most of, then try to cut down on using those products. For example, track how many plastic bags you use a day,” said Sydney Steinberg (’19).

See our print article about the ban on plastic bags in our new October issue in the Special Report section.